QTL Analysis for Rice Quality-Related Traits and Fine Mapping of qWCR3

The quality of rice, evaluated using multiple quality-related traits, is the main determinant of its market competitiveness. In this study, two japonica rice varieties with significant differences in quality-related traits were used as parents to construct two populations, BC3F2 and BC3F2:3, with Kongyu131 (KY131) as the recurrent parent. A genetic linkage map was constructed using the BC3F2 population based on 151 pairs of SSR/InDel polymorphic markers selected between the parents. Grain-shape-related traits (grain length GL, grain width GW, and length-to-width ratio LWR), chalkiness-related traits (white-core rate WCR, white-belly rate WBR, white-back rate BR, and chalkiness rate CR), and amylose content (AC) were investigated in the two populations in 2017 and 2018. Except for BR and CR, the traits showed similar characteristics with a normal distribution in both populations. Genetic linkage analysis was conducted for these quality-related traits, and a total of 37 QTLs were detected in the two populations. Further validation was performed on the newly identified QTLs with larger effects, and three grain shape QTLs and four chalkiness QTLs were successfully validated in different environments. One repeatedly validated QTL, qWCR3, was selected for fine mapping and was successfully narrowed down to a 100 kb region in which only two genes, LOC_0s03g45210 and LOC_0s03g45320, exhibited sequence variations between the parents. Furthermore, the variation of LOC_Os03g45210 leads to a frameshift mutation and premature protein termination. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for positional cloning of the qWCR3 gene, thus offering new genetic resources for rice quality improvement.

Fine Mapping of Five Grain Size QTLs Which Affect Grain Yield and Quality in Rice

Grain size is a quantitative trait with a complex genetic mechanism, characterized by the combination of grain length (GL), grain width (GW), length to width ration (LWR), and grain thickness (GT). In this study, we conducted quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis to investigate the genetic basis of grain size using BC1F2 and BC1F2:3 populations derived from two indica lines, Guangzhan 63-4S (GZ63-4S) and TGMS29 (core germplasm number W240). A total of twenty-four QTLs for grain size were identified, among which, three QTLs (qGW1, qGW7, and qGW12) controlling GL and two QTLs (qGW5 and qGL9) controlling GW were validated and subsequently fine mapped to regions ranging from 128 kb to 624 kb. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis and expression analysis revealed that qGW7 influences cell expansion, while qGL9 affects cell division. Conversely, qGW1, qGW5, and qGW12 promoted both cell division and expansion. Furthermore, negative correlations were observed between grain yield and quality for both qGW7 and qGW12. Nevertheless, qGW5 exhibited the potential to enhance quality without compromising yield. Importantly, we identified two promising QTLs, qGW1 and qGL9, which simultaneously improved both grain yield and quality. In summary, our results laid the foundation for cloning these five QTLs and provided valuable resources for breeding rice varieties with high yield and superior quality.

Effects of Different Heating and Cooling Rates during Solution Treatment on Microstructure and Properties of AA7050 Alloy Wires

In the present study, the effects of varying heating and cooling rates during the solution treatment process on the microstructure and properties of AA7050 alloy wires were investigated using tensile tests, metallographic microscopy, electron backscattered diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. It was found that the recrystallized grain size of the alloy, subjected to method of rapid heating, exhibited a smaller and more uniform distribution in comparison to method of slow heating. The low density of η' strengthening phases after the artificial aging treatment was formed using air cooling method. Meanwhile, by using the water quenching method sufficient solute atoms and more nucleation sites were provided resulting in a large number of η' strengthening phases being formed. In addition, the alloy processed using the water quenching method displayed higher strength than that treated using the air cooling method for the T6 and T73 states. Furthermore, coarse precipitates formed and less clusters were observed in the matrix, while high density nanoscale clusters and no continuous precipitation are formed when using the water quenching method.

Exploration of Alloying Elements of High Specific Modulus Al-Li Alloy Based on Machine Learning

In the aerospace sector, the development of lightweight aircraft heavily relies on the utilization of advanced aluminum-lithium alloys as primary structural materials. This study introduces an investigation aimed at optimizing the composition of an Al-2.32Li-1.44Cu-2.78Mg-0.3Ag-0.3Mn-0.1Zr alloy. The optimization process involves the selection of alloying elements through the application of machine learning techniques, with a focus on expected improvements in the specific modulus of these alloys. Expanding upon the optimization of the benchmark alloy's components, a more generalized modulus prediction model for Al-Li alloys was formulated. This model was then employed to evaluate the anticipated specific modulus of alloys within a virtual search space, encompassing substitutional elements. The study proceeded to validate six Al-Li alloys with a notably high potential for achieving an improved specific modulus. The results revealed that an alloy incorporating 0.96 wt.% of Ga as a substitutional element exhibited the most favorable microstructure. This alloy demonstrated optimal tensile strength (523 MPa) and specific modulus (31.531 GPa/(g·cm-3)), closely resembling that of the benchmark alloy. This research offers valuable insights into the application of compositional optimization to enhance the mechanical properties of Al-Li alloys. It emphasizes the significance of selecting alloying elements based on considerations such as their solid solubility thresholds and the expected enhancement of the specific modulus in Al-Li alloys.

Interdigitation of Radiation Earlier in the Multimodal Treatment of Patients with Lymphoma: The Effect on Opiate Analgesic Requirements

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Delay in radiation therapy (RT) as part of multimodality therapy in Hodgkin (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is associated with worse pain scores. In a heterogeneous cohort of lymphoma patients, we hypothesize that interdigitating RT before fewer (versus more) lines of chemotherapy (C) will be associated with lower opiate analgesic requirement.

MATERIALS/METHODS

From 2009-2019, patients with HL or NHL received palliative (36.5%) or definitive (63.3%) RT at a single institution. An IRB approved database with baseline treatment/disease characteristics, including oral morphine equivalent (OME) requirement, was reviewed. OME was recorded for a) 3-month period prior to RT, b) the month during RT, and c) 3 months after RT. Post-RT change in OME was calculated as the difference in "b" and "c" such that greater or less OME use post-RT was defined as positive or negative value respectively. We performed one-tailed t-test analyses to determine differences in OME during RT between different cohorts. Correlations between baseline characteristics and OME were performed using Spearman correlations, controlling for lymphoma subtype, stage, tumor volume, relapsed/refractory disease, duration of radiation and bulky disease.

RESULTS

Of 180 patients, 57.8% had NHL, 40.6% were stage IV and 29.4% had bulky disease. At median of 19 days [6-80] from diagnosis, 74% of patients received C with a median of 2 lines [1-4] before RT. The median interval from diagnosis to RT was 11 months [4-36]. Pearson correlation showed a negative association between time from diagnosis to RT and postRT OME in the definitive cohort (R2 = 0.42, F = 4.54, p = 0.002) such that the longer the time to RT, the larger the decrease in OME postRT as compared to during RT. T-test showed higher mean OME during RT for those receiving > 2 lines of C preRT (148.3mg) as compared to those receiving ≤ 2 lines before RT (51.5mg, p = 0.02). In patients receiving definitive RT, the difference remained significant: those receiving >2 lines of C had higher OME during RT as compared to those receiving ≤ 2 lines (207.5mg versus 48.3mg, p = 0.02). The difference in mean OME for patients receiving >2 C lines versus ≤ 2 lines was not significantly different in the palliative cohort (75.6 vs 60.6, p = 0.33). OME use during RT was also found to be higher in patients with bulky disease as compared to non-bulky disease (175.7 versus 52.0, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

In our single-center experience, patients who received >2 lines of C prior to RT were found to have a significantly higher mean OME requirement during RT. In patients receiving definitive RT, longer time to receipt of RT was found to be associated with a larger decrease in OME post-RT, likely related to starting with a higher OME. Interdigitation of RT early on, prior to the 3rd line of chemotherapy, may help reduce pain and improve quality of life.

Improvement of Rice Blast Resistance in TGMS Line HD9802S through Optimized Anther Culture and Molecular Marker-Assisted Selection

Rice blast caused by Magnaporthe oryzae is one of the most serious rice diseases worldwide. The early indica rice thermosensitive genic male sterile (TGMS) line HD9802S has the characteristics of stable fertility, reproducibility, a high outcrossing rate, excellent rice quality, and strong combining ability. However, this line exhibits poor blast resistance and is highly susceptible to leaf and neck blasts. In this study, backcross introduction, molecular marker-assisted selection, gene chipping, anther culture, and resistance identification in the field were used to introduce the broad-spectrum blast-resistance gene R6 into HD9802S to improve its rice blast resistance. Six induction media were prepared by varying the content of each component in the culture medium. Murashige and Skoog's medium with 3 mg/L 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, 2 mg/L 1-naphthaleneacetic acid, and 1 mg/L kinetin and N6 medium with 800 mg/L casein hydrolysate, 600 mg/L proline, and 500 mg/L glutamine could improve the callus induction rate and have a higher green seedling rate and a lower white seedling rate. Compared to HD9802S, two doubled haploid lines containing R6 with stable fertility showed significantly enhanced resistance to rice blast and no significant difference in spikelet number per panicle, 1000-grain weight, or grain shape. Our findings highlight a rapid and effective method for improving rice blast resistance in TGMS lines.

Small-sample learning reveals propionylation in determining global protein homeostasis

Proteostasis is fundamental for maintaining organismal health. However, the mechanisms underlying its dynamic regulation and how its disruptions lead to diseases are largely unclear. Here, we conduct in-depth propionylomic profiling in Drosophila, and develop a small-sample learning framework to prioritize the propionylation at lysine 17 of H2B (H2BK17pr) to be functionally important. Mutating H2BK17 which eliminates propionylation leads to elevated total protein level in vivo. Further analyses reveal that H2BK17pr modulates the expression of 14.7-16.3% of genes in the proteostasis network, and determines global protein level by regulating the expression of genes involved in the ubiquitin-proteasome system. In addition, H2BK17pr exhibits daily oscillation, mediating the influences of feeding/fasting cycles to drive rhythmic expression of proteasomal genes. Our study not only reveals a role of lysine propionylation in regulating proteostasis, but also implements a generally applicable method which can be extended to other issues with little prior knowledge.

Broad phosphorylation mediated by testis-specific serine/threonine kinases contributes to spermiogenesis and male fertility

Genetic studies elucidate a link between testis-specific serine/threonine kinases (TSSKs) and male infertility in mammals, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here, we identify a TSSK homolog in Drosophila, CG14305 (termed dTSSK), whose mutation impairs the histone-to-protamine transition during spermiogenesis and causes multiple phenotypic defects in nuclear shaping, DNA condensation, and flagellar organization in spermatids. Genetic analysis demonstrates that kinase catalytic activity of dTSSK, which is functionally conserved with human TSSKs, is essential for male fertility. Phosphoproteomics identify 828 phosphopeptides/449 proteins as potential substrates of dTSSK enriched primarily in microtubule-based processes, flagellar organization and mobility, and spermatid differentiation and development, suggesting that dTSSK phosphorylates various proteins to orchestrate postmeiotic spermiogenesis. Among them, the two substrates, protamine-like protein Mst77F/Ser⁹ and transition protein Mst33A/Ser²³⁷, are biochemically validated to be phosphorylated by dTSSK in vitro, and are genetically demonstrated to be involved in spermiogenesis in vivo. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that broad phosphorylation mediated by TSSKs plays an indispensable role in spermiogenesis.

Effects of Cu Addition on Age Hardening Behavior and Mechanical Properties of High-Strength Al-1.2Mg-1.2Si Alloy

In this study, the effects of Cu addition on artificial age hardening behavior and mechanical properties of Al-1.2Mg-1.2Si-(xCu) alloy was investigated quantitatively and qualitatively by Vickers hardness, tensile test, and transmission electron microscope. The results indicated that Cu addition enhanced the aging response of the alloy at 175 °C. With the increase in Cu content, the time for the alloys to reach peak aging decreased from 12 h to 10 h and 8 h. The tensile strength of the alloy was obviously improved with Cu added in which was 421 MPa of 0Cu alloy, 448 MPa of 0.18Cu alloy, and 459 MPa of 0.37Cu alloy. The results of TEM observation revealed that the addition of 0.37Cu changed the aging precipitation sequence of the alloy, in which the precipitation sequence of 0Cu and 0.18Cu alloy was SSSS→GP zones/pre-β″→β″→β″ + β', 0.37Cu alloy was SSSS→GP zones/pre-β″→β″ + L→β″ + L + Q'. Moreover, with the addition of Cu, the number density and volume fraction of precipitates of the Al-1.2Mg-1.2Si-(xCu) alloy was evidently increased. The number density was increased from 0.23 × 10²³/m³ to 0.73 × 10²³/m³ in the initial aging stage and from 1.9 × 10²³/m³ to 5.5 × 10²³/m³ in the peak aging stage. The volume fraction was increased from 0.27% to 0.59% in the early aging stage and from 4.05% to 5.36% in the peak aging stage. It indicated that Cu addition promoted the precipitation of strengthening precipitates and boosted the mechanical properties of the alloy accordingly.

Could immune-related hepatitis rapidly progress to immune-related cirrhosis?

BACKGROUND

Immune-related hepatitis is one of the prevalent adverse events associated with immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). For patients without a history of liver disease, autoimmune disease, or alcohol consumption, it is not clear whether immune-related hepatitis could rapid progress to immune-related cirrhosis.

CASE REPORT

We report the case of a 54-year-old female with stage IIIB primary pulmonary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (PLELC) diagnosed with immune-related hepatitis. After 15 months, a liver biopsy demonstrated the rapid progression of liver cirrhosis although systematic corticosteroid administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term immune activation caused by ICIs may exacerbate the process of cirrhosis. Great attention should be paid to the rapid progression to liver cirrhosis of immune-related hepatitis in the clinic.

Creation of Two-Line Fragrant Glutinous Hybrid Rice by Editing the Wx and OsBADH2 Genes via the CRISPR/Cas9 System

Global food security has benefited from the development and promotion of the two-line hybrid rice system. Excellent eating quality determines the market competitiveness of hybrid rice varieties based on achieving the fundamental requirements of high yield and good adaptability. Developing sterile and restorer lines with improved quality for two-line hybrid breeding by editing quality genes with clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/Cas9 is an efficient and practical alternative to the lengthy and laborious process of conventional breeding to improve rice quality. We edited Wx and OsBADH2 using CRISPR/Cas9 technology to produce both homozygous male sterile mutant lines and homozygous restorer mutant lines with Cas9-free. These mutants have a much lower amylose content while having a significantly higher 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline aroma content. Based on this, a fragrant glutinous hybrid rice was developed without too much effect on most agronomic traits. This study demonstrates the use of CRISPR/Cas9 in creating two-line fragrant glutinous hybrid rice by editing the components of the male sterile and the restorative lines.

Genome-wide association study for reproduction-related traits in Chinese domestic goose

1. This study measured six reproduction traits in a Sichuan white goose population (209 individuals), including fertility, qualified egg rate, plasma concentrations of progesterone (P), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin (PRL) and oestrogen (E2).2. Whole-genome resequencing data from the same goose population (209 individuals) were used in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) utilising a mixed linear model to investigate the genes and genetic markers associated with reproduction traits. The frequency of the selected SNPs and haplotypes were determined using the Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) method.3. In total, 42 SNPs significantly associated with these traits were identified. A haplotype block was constructed based on five SNPs that were significantly associated with qualified egg rate, with individuals having the haplotype CCTTAAGGAA having the lowest qualified egg rate.4. In conclusion, these results provided potential markers for marker-assisted selection to improve goose reproductive performance and a basis for elucidating the genetics of goose reproduction.

Cis- and trans-regulation by histone H4 basic patch R17/R19 in metazoan development

The histone H4 basic patch is critical for chromatin structure and regulation of the chromatin machinery. However, the biological roles of these positively charged residues and the mechanisms by which they regulate gene expression remain unclear. In this study, we used histone mutagenesis to investigate the physiological function and downstream regulatory genes of H4 residues R17 and R19 in Drosophila. We found all histone mutations including R17A/E/H and R19A/E/H (R17 and R19 of H4 are substituted by A, E and H respectively) result in a range of growth defects and abnormalities in chromosomal high-order structures, whereas R17E mutation is embryonic lethal. RNA-seq demonstrates that downregulated genes in both R17A and R19A show significant overlap and are enriched in development-related pathways. In addition, Western and cytological analyses showed that the R17A mutation resulted in a significant reduction in H4K16 acetylation and male offspring, implying that the R17 may be involved in male dosage compensation mechanisms. R19 mutation on the other hand strongly affect Gpp (Dot1 homologue in flies)-mediated H3K79 methylation, possibly through histone crosstalk. Together these results provide insights into the differential impacts of positive charges of H4 basic patch R17/R19 on regulation of gene transcription during developmental processes.

Fine mapping of qTGW2b and qGL9, two minor QTL conferring grain size and weight in rice

Rice grain size is a key determinant of both grain yield and quality. In this study, we conducted QTL mapping on grain size using a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from a cross between japonica variety Beilu130 (BL130) and indica variety Jin23B (J23B). A total of twenty-two QTL related to grain length (GL), grain width (GW), grain length-to-width ratio (LWR), grain thickness (GT), and thousand grain weight (TGW) were detected under two environments, and 14 of them were repeatedly detected. Two minor QTL, qTGW2b and qGL9, were validated and further delimited to regions of 631 kb and 272 kb, respectively. Parental sequence comparison of genes expressed in inflorescence in corresponding candidate regions identified frameshifts in the exons of LOC_Os02g38690 and LOC_Os02g38780, both of which encode protein phosphatase 2C-containing protein, and LOC_Os09g29930, which encodes a BIM2 protein. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that the increase of cell size rather than cell number caused the differences in grain size between NILs of qTGW2b and qGL9. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed that the expression levels of EXPA4, EXPA5, EXPA6, EXPB3, EXPB4, and EXPB7 were significantly different in both qTGW2b NILs and qGL9 NILs. Our results lay the foundation for the cloning of qTGW2b and qGL9, and provide genetic materials for the improvement of rice yield and quality.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-022-01328-2.

OsHXK3 encodes a hexokinase-like protein that positively regulates grain size in rice

We report the map-based cloning and functional characterization of SNG1, which encodes OsHXK3, a hexokinase-like protein that plays a pivotal role in controlling grain size in rice. Grain size is an important agronomic trait determining grain yield and appearance quality in rice. Here, we report the discovery of rice mutant short and narrow grain1 (sng1) with reduced grain length, width and weight. Map-based cloning revealed that the mutant phenotype was caused by loss of function of gene OsHXK3 that encodes a hexokinase-like (HKL) protein. OsHXK3 was associated with the mitochondria and was ubiquitously distributed in various organs, predominately in younger organs. Analysis of glucose (Glc) phosphorylation activities in young panicles and protoplasts showed that OsHXK3 was a non-catalytic hexokinase (HXK). Overexpression of OsHXK3 could not complement the Arabidopsis glucose insensitive2-1 (gin2-1) mutant, indicating that OsHXK3 lacked Glc signaling activity. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that OsHXK3 affects grain size by promoting spikelet husk cell expansion. Knockout of other nine OsHXK genes except OsHXK3 individually did not change grain size, indicating that functions of OsHXKs have differentiated in rice. OsHXK3 influences gibberellin (GA) biosynthesis and homeostasis. Compared with wild type, OsGA3ox2 was significantly up-regulated and OsGA2ox1 was significantly down-regulated in young panicle of sng1, and concentrations of biologically active GAs were significantly decreased in young panicles of the mutants. The yield per plant of OsHXK3 overexpression lines (OE-4 and OE-35) was increased by 10.91% and 7.62%, respectively, compared to that of wild type. Our results provide evidence that an HXK lacking catalytic and sensory functions plays an important role in grain size and has the potential to increase yield in rice.

Microstructure, Precipitates Behavior, and Mechanical Properties of Age-Hardened Al-Mg-Si Alloy Sheet Fabricated by Twin-Roll Casting

Twin-roll casting (TRC), as a near-net-shape technology, is employed to fabricate age-hardened Al-Mg-Si alloy. Compared with conventional direct chill (DC) casting, the TRC method is much more economical and efficient. In this work, the microstructure, precipitates behavior, and mechanical properties of age-hardened Al-Mg-Si alloy sheet fabricated by TRC were investigated by hardness measurements and tensile tests, metallographic microscopy, field emission gun scanning electron microscope, electron backscatter diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry analyses. It was found that the size of recrystallized grains for DC casting alloy with finely dispersed particles was larger than that of TRC alloy with coarse particles. Typical Cube_ND texture accompanied by P texture formed after solution treatment made the value of r reach ~0.7 in the TRC alloy due to the PSN effect caused by the segregation of particles. More GP zones resulted in the strength of TRC alloy being higher than that of DC casting alloy after T8X treatment. With the time of paint-bake hardening extended to 8 h, few segregation particles remained in the TRC alloy. This decreased the concentration of supersaturated atoms. The hardness of the TRC alloy with the lower density of the β″ strengthening phase was lower compared to the DC casting alloy.

Transcription-coupled donor DNA expression increases homologous recombination for efficient genome editing

Genomes can be edited by homologous recombination stimulated by CRISPR/Cas9 [clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated peptide 9]-induced DNA double-strand breaks. However, this approach is inefficient for inserting or deleting long fragments in mammalian cells. Here, we describe a simple genome-editing method, termed transcription-coupled Cas9-mediated editing (TEd), that can achieve higher efficiencies than canonical Cas9-mediated editing (CEd) in deleting genomic fragments, inserting/replacing large DNA fragments and introducing point mutations into mammalian cell lines. We also found that the transcription on DNA templates is crucial for the promotion of homology-directed repair, and that tethering transcripts from TEd donors to targeted sites further improves editing efficiency. The superior efficiency of TEd for the insertion and deletion of long DNA fragments expands the applications of CRISPR for editing mammalian genomes.

Effects of Wx Genotype, Nitrogen Fertilization, and Temperature on Rice Grain Quality

Quality is a complex trait that is not only the key determinant of the market value of the rice grain, but is also a major constraint in rice breeding. It is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. However, the combined effects of genotypes and environmental factors on rice grain quality remain unclear. In this study, we used a three-factor experimental design to examine the grain quality of different Wx genotypes grown under different nitrogen fertilization and temperature conditions during grain development. We found that the three factors contributed differently to taste, appearance, and nutritional quality. Increased Wx function and nitrogen fertilization significantly reduced eating quality, whereas high temperature (HT) had almost no effect. The main effects of temperature on appearance quality and moderate Wx function at low temperatures (LTs) contributed to better appearance, and higher nitrogen fertilization promoted appearance at HTs. With regard to nutritional quality, Wx alleles promoted amylose content (AC) as well as starch-lipids content (SLC); nitrogen fertilization increased storage protein content (PC); and higher temperature increased lipid content but decreased the PC. This study helps to broaden the understanding of the major factors that affect the quality of rice and provides constructive messages for rice quality improvement and the cultivation of high-quality rice varieties.

Secure and noise-resistant underwater wireless optical communication based on spectrum spread and encrypted OFDM modulation

In addition to requirements on increasing transmission distance and bitrate, the study of underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) is also facing limitations and challenges, such as interference induced by background noise, demand of higher receiver sensitivity, and communication security issues. In this paper, we experimentally demonstrate a physical layer secure and noise-resistant UWOC system based on spectrum spread and encrypted orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (SSE-OFDM) modulation, transmission through a 14.2 m sediment circulating water tank. Firstly, experimental results show that the required optical power ratio of signal and noise light (OPR) for QPSK signal under BER threshold of 3.8×10^-3 is around -5.77 dB for a spectrum spread factor (N) of 100, with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) improvement of 19.06 dB. Secondly, without the background noise interference, the receiver sensitivity is also improved from -50 dBm to -62.4 dBm by using the SSE-OFDM modulation, achieving a maximum attenuation length (AL) of 19.67. Thirdly, physical layer security of UWOC can also be realized, which suppresses the SNR of eavesdropper to -3.72 dB while improving SNR of the authorized receiver to 17.56 dB under the condition of no leakage of keys. Additionally, analytical expressions for SSE-OFDM based UWOC performance are also derived, which agree well with the experimental results. Based on the analytical expressions, the maximum secrecy capacity Cs for SSE-OFDM based UWOC system under eavesdropping can be obtained by optimizing the intentionally inserted artificial noise power ratio and the spectrum spread factor N.

Natural variation in WHITE-CORE RATE 1 regulates redox homeostasis in rice endosperm to affect grain quality

Grain chalkiness reduces the quality of rice (Oryza sativa) and is a highly undesirable trait for breeding and marketing. However, the underlying molecular cause of chalkiness remains largely unknown. Here, we cloned the F-box gene WHITE-CORE RATE 1 (WCR1), which negatively regulates grain chalkiness and improves grain quality in rice. A functional A/G variation in the promoter region of WCR1 generates the alleles WCR1A and WCR1G, which originated from tropical japonica and wild rice Oryza rufipogon, respectively. OsDOF17 is a transcriptional activator that binds to the AAAAG cis-element in the WCR1A promoter. WCR1 positively affects the transcription of the metallothionein gene MT2b and interacts with MT2b to inhibit its 26S proteasome-mediated degradation, leading to decreased reactive oxygen species production and delayed programmed cell death in rice endosperm. This, in turn, leads to reduced chalkiness. Our findings uncover a molecular mechanism underlying rice chalkiness and identify the promising natural variant WCR1A, with application potential for rice breeding.

An efficient catalyst of CuPt/TiO2 for photocatalytic direct dehydrogenation of methanol to methyl formate at ambient temperature

CuPt alloy nanoparticles on TiO2 are highly effective for photocatalytic direct dehydrogenation of methanol to methyl formate at ambient temperature.

Fine mapping of qWCR7, a grain chalkiness QTL in rice

Chalkiness is one of the key determinants of rice quality and is a highly undesirable trait for breeding and marketing. In this study, qWCR7, a major quantitative trait locus (QTL) of white-core rate (WCR), was genetically validated using a BC3F2 segregation population and further fine mapped using a near isogenic line (NIL) population, of which both were derived from a cross between the donor parent DL208 and the recurrent parent ZS97. qWCR7 was finally narrowed to a genomic interval of ~ 68 kb, containing seven annotated genes. Among those, two genes displayed markedly different expression levels in endosperm of NILs. Transcriptome analysis showed that the synthesis and accumulation of metabolites played a key role in chalkiness formation. The contents of storage components and expression levels of related genes were detected, suggesting that starch and storage protein were closely related to white-core trait. Our findings have laid the foundation of map-based cloning of qWCR7, which may have potential value in quality improvement during rice breeding.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-021-01260-x.

Combinations of Ghd7, Ghd8, and Hd1 determine strong heterosis of commercial rice hybrids in diverse ecological regions

Heterosis of grain yield is closely associated with heading date in crops. Gene combinations of the major heading date genes Ghd7, Ghd8, and Hd1 play important roles in enhancing grain yield and adaptation to ecological regions in rice. However, the predominant three-gene combinations for a specific ecological region remain unclear in both three-line and two-line hybrids. In this study, we sequenced these three genes of 50 cytoplasmic male sterile/maintainer lines, 31 photo-thermo-sensitive genic male sterile lines, and 109 restorer lines. Sequence analysis showed that hybrids carrying strong functional alleles of Ghd7 and Hd1 and non-functional Ghd8 are predominant in three-line hybrids and are recommended for rice production in the subtropics around 30°N/S. Hybrids carrying strong functional Ghd7 and Ghd8 and non-functional Hd1 are predominant in two-line hybrids and are recommended for low latitude areas around 23.5°N/S rich in photothermal resources. Hybrids carrying strong functional Ghd7 and Ghd8 and functional Hd1 were not identified in commercial hybrids in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, but they have high yield potential in tropical regions because they have the strongest photoperiod sensitivity. Based on these findings, two genic sterile lines, Xiangling 628S and C815S, whose hybrids often head very late, were diagnosed with these three genes, and Hd1 was targeted to be knocked out in Xiangling 628S and replaced with hd1 in C815S. The hybrids developed from both modified sterile lines in turn had appropriate heading dates and significantly improved grain yield. This study provides new insights for breeding design to develop hybrids for various regions.

Data-aided channel equalization scheme for FAST radio over fiber transmission system

The Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST) located in Guizhou, China, is a very sensitive single dish telescope. Due to the large size of the telescope, optical fiber is used for the transmission of the 3-km astronomical signal from the telescope to the signal processing center. The optical fibers are suspended in the air above the telescope reflector, very easy to slide when the telescope feed cabin moves, resulting in phase drifts for the transmission signal. This phase drift has a negative impact on the observation mode of very long baseline interferometry, and can be compensated by the frequency transfer system in the FAST. In this manuscript, we propose a new phase drift compensation scheme, which is denoted as data-aided channel equalization scheme. The proposed scheme is based on a hypothesis of linear phase relationship between different wavelengths in the same optical fiber, and uses the channel response information of the data-aided channel to conduct signal recovery for the astronomical signal channel. Not only the phase drift, but also the frequency-dependent distortion of the broadband transmission link can be compensated. The proposed scheme has simple transmission structure, and the function part is well modularized, so that the Astronomer users can easily turn it on or off. In the proof-of-concept experiments, the estimation deviation can be significantly reduced by estimated channel responses averaging over training sequence repetitions, showing very high accuracy of the astronomical signal channel estimation.

FLOURY ENDOSPERM19 encoding a class I glutamine amidotransferase affects grain quality in rice

As a staple food for more than half of the world's population, the importance of rice is self-evident. Compared with ordinary rice, rice cultivars with superior eating quality and appearance quality are more popular with consumers due to their unique taste and ornamental value, even if their price is much higher. Appearance quality and CEQ (cooking and eating quality) are two very important aspects in the evaluation of rice quality. Here, we performed a genome-wide association study on floury endosperm in a diverse panel of 533 cultivated rice accessions. We identified a batch of potential floury genes and prioritize one (LOC_Os03g48060) for functional analyses. Two floury outer endosperm mutants (flo19-1 and flo19-2) were generated through editing LOC_Os03g48060 (named as FLO19 in this study), which encodes a class I glutamine amidotransferase. The different performances of the two mutants in various storage substances directly led to completely different changes in CEQ. The mutation of FLO19 gene caused the damage of carbon and nitrogen metabolism in rice, which affected the normal growth and development of rice, including decreased plant height and yield loss by decreased grain filling rate. Through haplotype analysis, we identified a haplotype of FLO19 that can improve both CEQ and appearance quality of rice, Hap2, which provides a selection target for rice quality improvement, especially for high-yield indica rice varieties.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-021-01226-z.

The origin of Wxla provides new insights into the improvement of grain quality in rice

Appearance and taste are important factors in rice (Oryza sativa) grain quality. Here, we investigated the taste scores and related eating-quality traits of 533 diverse cultivars to assess the relationships between-and genetic basis of-rice taste and eating-quality. A genome-wide association study highlighted the Wx gene as the major factor underlying variation in taste and eating quality. Notably, a novel waxy (Wx) allele, Wx^la , which combined two mutations from Wx^b and Wxⁱⁿ , exhibited a unique phenotype. Reduced GBSSI activity conferred Wx^la rice with both a transparent appearance and good eating quality. Haplotype analysis revealed that Wx^la was derived from intragenic recombination. In fact, the recombination rate at the Wx locus was estimated to be 3.34 kb/cM, which was about 75-fold higher than the genome-wide mean, indicating that intragenic recombination is a major force driving diversity at the Wx locus. Based on our results, we propose a new network for Wx evolution, noting that new Wx alleles could easily be generated by crossing genotypes with different Wx alleles. This study thus provides insights into the evolution of the Wx locus and facilitates molecular breeding for quality in rice.

Genetic architecture and key genes controlling the diversity of oil composition in rice grains

Rice grain oil is a valuable nutrient source. However, the genetic basis of oil biosynthesis in rice grains remains unclear. In this study, we performed a genome-wide association study on oil composition and oil concentration in a diverse panel of 533 cultivated rice accessions. High variation for 11 oil-related traits was observed, and the oil composition of rice grains showed differentiation among the subpopulations. We identified 46 loci that are significantly associated with grain oil concentration or composition, 16 of which were detected in three recombinant inbred line populations. Twenty-six candidate genes encoding enzymes involved in oil metabolism were identified from these 46 loci, four of which (PAL6, LIN6, MYR2, and ARA6) were found to contribute to natural variation in oil composition and to show differentiation among the subpopulations. Interestingly, population genetic analyses revealed that specific haplotypes of PAL6 and LIN6 have been selected in japonica rice. Based on these results, we propose a possible oil biosynthetic pathway in rice grains. Collectively, our results provide new insights into the genetic basis of oil biosynthesis in rice grains and can facilitate marker-based breeding of rice varieties with enhanced oil and grain quality.

Photocatalytic partial oxidation of methanol to methyl formate under visible light irradiation on Bi-doped TiO2 via tuning band structure and surface hydroxyls

Preparing visible light responsive catalysts for partial oxidation of methanol to methyl formate is a challenging issue. This work addresses the synthesis, characterization and theoretical calculation of Bi doped TiO₂ catalysts as well as their photocatalytic performance and reaction mechanism for MF synthesis from methanol. The catalysts were prepared by a simple wet chemical method. The results of the characterization and theoretical calculation evidenced that bismuth was intercalated in the lattice of anatase by the substitution of titanium. Impurity levels were formed in the valence band, conduction band and between the two bands. The Bi 6s and 5p orbitals contributed to the formation of the impurity levels. The photo-excited electrons transited from the valence band via impurity levels, formed by Bi 6s orbitals, to the conduction band. The doping of Bi enhanced surface hydroxyls, reduced the band gaps and raised the valence band edges (VBE) of the Bi doped catalyst. The Bi doped catalysts were visible light responsive due to the reduced band gap. The surface hydroxyls were beneficial to the methanol conversion, and the rise of the VBE enhanced the redox potential of the photogenerated holes. Only moderate redox potentials and sufficient surface hydroxyls could lead to high methanol conversion and MF selectivity. This study is of great significance to the development of the photocatalytic synthesis theory and provides a green route for MF synthesis from methanol.

Bi-doped titania is well studied for photocatalytic partial oxidation of methanol to methyl formate under visible light irradiation.

Whole-genome sequencing reveals breed-differential CNVs between Tongcheng and Large White pigs

Large phenotypic differences have been observed between Tongcheng and Large White pigs. However, little is known about their genetic basis. This study performed a genome-wide comparison of CNVs between Tongcheng and Large White pigs using genome sequencing data. By combining the advantages of three different strategies (read depth, paired-end mapping and split read), we detected in total 18 687 CNVs that covered approximately 3.5% of the pig genome length for Tongcheng and Large White pigs. We identified 1864 breed-stratified CNVs (top 10%) by performing V_ST statistics. Functional enrichment analyses for genes located in breed-stratified CNVs were found to be involved in pigmentation, behavior, immune system and reproductive processes, which coincide with phenotypic differences between the two breeds. Using a systematic analysis of the genome and transcriptome data, we further identified four novel breed-differential CNVs on the functional genes (disease-resistant, DCUN1D2 and SPARCL1; lipid metabolism, PLEKHA2 and SLCO1A2). Subsequent PCR validation confirmed their accurate breakpoint positions in 33 Tongcheng pigs and 33 Large White pigs. This study provides essential information on differential CNVs for further research on the genetic basis of phenotypic differences between Tongcheng and Large White pigs.

miR-152 promotes spinal cord injury recovery via c-jun amino terminal kinase pathway

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this research is to explore the possible role of miR-152 in spinal cord injury and its underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After a mouse model of spinal cord injury (SCI) was developed, Real Time-quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expression of miR-152 and c-jun in the mouse. In addition, the expression levels of interleukin-1b (IL-1b), interleukin-18 (IL-18) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Subsequently, miR-152 was overexpressed and the levels of inflammation and c-jun after spinal cord injury were detected by Western blot. Furthermore, the grip strength of double forelimb, left forelimb or right forelimb of the mice was detected using a grip force test after miR-152 was overexpressed in the injured area of each group.

RESULTS

By constructing a mouse model of spinal cord injury, we found that the expression of miR-152 in the injured area decreased with time; meanwhile, the inflammatory relative genes including IL-1b, IL18, TNF-α, and c-jun were significantly increased. However, miR-152 overexpression significantly reduced the levels of inflammation genes as well as the expression of c-jun. Besides, the strength of the forelimbs in the spinal cord injury mice was restored.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-152 could inhibit inflammatory responses and promote the recovery of the spinal cord injury through the c-jun N-terminal kinase pathway and it can be a target molecular for treating spinal cord injury.

[Clinicopathological and molecular features of pulmonary enteric adenocarcinoma]

Objective: To investigate the clinicopathological and molecular characteristics of pulmonary enteric adenocarcinoma (PEAC). Methods: The clinical and pathological data of 19 cases of PEAC in the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University were retrospectively collected from 2015 to 2019. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to detect the relevant immunophenotypes, amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) were used to detect the expression of EGFR, KRAS and ALK genes. The patients were followed up, and the relevant literature was reviewed and analyzed. Results: There were 19 cases, including 10 males and 9 females, with a mean age of 58 years (range 33-71 years). Microscopically, the tumors showed moderately to highly differentiated adenoid and/or papillary growth patterns. The tumor cells were highly columnar and sometimes showed pseudostratification. Inflammatory necrosis and scattered nuclear fragmentation were seen in some glandular lumens. IHC showed variable expression of CK7 (19/19), TTF1 (8/19), Napsin A (6/19), villin (17/19), CK20 (16/19) and CDX2 (10/19). Molecular testing showed KRAS mutation in nine cases (9/19), EGFR mutation in one case (1/19), and positive ALK split signal in one case (1/19). In the literature, the reported mutation rate of KRAS in PEAC was much higher than that of EGFR and ALK. All 19 cases underwent surgical resection and 11 cases were subjected to chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Conclusions: PEAC is a rare variant of invasive pulmonary adenocarcinoma, and has similar histological and cytological features to that of colorectal adenocarcinoma. However, detailed medical history, histologic heterogeneity, an IHC combination of CK7(+)/villin(+) and high KRAS mutation rate are the key points of diagnosis. The prognosis needs long-term follow-up and big data statistics.

Identification of Blast Resistance QTLs Based on Two Advanced Backcross Populations in Rice

BACKGROUND

Rice blast is an economically important and mutable disease of rice. Using host resistance gene to breed resistant varieties has been proven to be the most effective and economical method to control rice blast and new resistance genes or quantitative trait loci (QTLs) are then needed.

RESULTS

In this study, we constructed two advanced backcross population to mapping blast resistance QTLs. CR071 and QingGuAi3 were as the donor parent to establish two BC₃F₁ and derived BC₃F₂ backcross population in the Jin23B background. By challenging the two populations with natural infection in 2011 and 2012, 16 and 13 blast resistance QTLs were identified in Jin23B/CR071 and Jin23B/QingGuAi3 population, respectively. Among Jin23B/CR071 population, 3 major and 13 minor QTLs have explained the phenotypic variation from 3.50% to 34.08% in 2 years. And, among Jin23B/QingGuAi3 population, 2 major and 11 minor QTLs have explained the phenotypic variation from 2.42% to 28.95% in 2 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Sixteen and thirteen blast resistance QTLs were identified in Jin23B/CR071 and Jin23B/QingGuAi3 population, respectively. QTL effect analyses suggested that major and minor QTLs interaction is the genetic basis for durable blast resistance in rice variety CR071 and QingGuAi3.

Molecular cloning of the goose GnRH gene and identification of GnRH polymorphisms associated with laying traits

1. Egg-laying traits are important economic characteristics in goose production (Anser cygnoides). The gene GnRH, which encodes gonadotropin-releasing hormone, is a strong candidate gene for egg-laying traits in avian species. 2. In this study, a 3520 bp genomic sequence and a 279 bp mRNA sequence for GnRH, which encoded 92 amino acids, were determined. The GnRH DNA sequence contains four exons and three introns, and the DNA and deduced amino acid sequences were highly conserved across mammals (human, macaque, cow, and sheep) and avians (chicken, fulmar and quail). 3. Using a direct sequencing method, 46 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in the GnRH genomic sequence that were shared between two Sichuan White goose populations (217 and 208 individuals). Furthermore, 44 haplotypes were constructed using a sliding window approach. Association analysis between the SNPs and haplotypes and egg-laying traits showed that 10 SNPs affected the first egg weight, average egg weight, egg number at 48 weeks and egg number at 64 weeks. 4. These results lay the foundation for further studies of the function of GnRH in geese and provide a theoretical basis for marker-assisted selection of egg-laying traits in the Sichuan white goose population.

HER2 exon 20 insertions in non-small-cell lung cancer are sensitive to the irreversible pan-HER receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor pyrotinib

BACKGROUND

Effective targeted therapy for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) mutations remains an unmet need. This study investigated the antitumor effect of an irreversible pan-HER receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, pyrotinib.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using patient-derived organoids and xenografts established from an HER2-A775_G776YVMA-inserted advanced lung adenocarcinoma patient sample, we investigated the antitumor activity of pyrotinib. Preliminary safety and efficacy of pyrotinib in 15 HER2-mutant NSCLC patients in a phase II clinical trial are also presented.

RESULTS

Pyrotinib showed significant growth inhibition of organoids relative to afatinib in vitro (P = 0.0038). In the PDX model, pyrotinib showed a superior antitumor effect than afatinib (P = 0.0471) and T-DM1 (P = 0.0138). Mice treated with pyrotinib displayed significant tumor burden reduction (mean tumor volume, -52.2%). In contrast, afatinib (25.4%) and T-DM1 (10.9%) showed no obvious reduction. Moreover, pyrotinib showed a robust ability to inhibit pHER2, pERK and pAkt. In the phase II cohort of 15 patients with HER2-mutant NSCLC, pyrotinib 400 mg resulted in a objective response rate of 53.3% and a median progression-free survival of 6.4 months.

CONCLUSION

Pyrotinib showed activity against NSCLC with HER2 exon 20 mutations in both patient-derived organoids and a PDX model. In the clinical trial, pyrotinib showed promising efficacy.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02535507.

Correction: IRE1 promotes neurodegeneration through autophagy-dependent neuron death in the Drosophila model of Parkinson's disease

Since online publication of this article, the authors noticed that some of the fly stocks were mislabelled in the methods and in Supplementary Figure 5. The corrected methods text is provided below.

Genome-Wide Association Studies Reveal the Genetic Basis of Fertility Restoration of CMS-WA and CMS-HL in xian/indica and aus Accessions of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

BACKGROUND

Wild-abortive cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS-WA) and Honglian CMS (CMS-HL) are the two main CMS types utilized in production of three-line hybrid rice in xian/indica (XI) rice. Dissection of the genetic basis of fertility restoration of CMS-WA and CMS-HL in the core germplasm population would provide valuable gene and material resources for development of three-line hybrid combinations.

RESULTS

In this study, two F₁ populations with CMS-WA and CMS-HL background respectively were developed using 337 XI and aus accessions being paternal parents. Genome-wide association studies on three fertility-related traits of the two populations for two consecutive years revealed that both fertility restoration of CMS-WA and CMS-HL were controlled by a major locus and several minor loci respectively. The major locus for fertility restoration of CMS-WA was co-located with Rf4, and that for fertility restoration of CMS-HL was co-located with Rf5, which are cloned major restorer of fertility (Rf) genes. Furthermore, haplotype analysis of Rf4, Rf5 and Rf6, the three cloned major Rf genes, were conducted using the 337 paternal accessions. Four main haplotypes were identified for Rf4, and displayed different subgroup preferences. Two main haplotypes were identified for Rf5, and the functional type was carried by the majority of paternal accessions. In addition, eight haplotypes were identified for Rf6.

CONCLUSIONS

Haplotype analysis of three Rf genes, Rf4, Rf5 and Rf6, could provide valuable sequence variations that can be utilized in marker-aided selection of corresponding genes in rice breeding. Meanwhile, fertility evaluation of 337 accessions under the background of CMS could provide material resources for development of maintainer lines and restorers.

The direct effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone on proliferation of granulosa cells and development of follicles in goose

1. The study objectives were to determine the direct effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) on the proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) and the development of follicles in geese (Anser cygnoides) by colorimetry and ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) cell proliferation assays, in which primary GCs were treated with different concentrations of GnRH agonist (alarelin acetate) and an antagonist (cetrorelix acetate). Differently expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by RNA-sequencing and validated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting. 2. The EdU assays showed that the proliferation of GCs was affected by the GnRH agonist and antagonist in a dose-dependent manner. The effect of treatment on cell proliferation was statistically significant at the concentrations of 10^-5 mol/l alarelin and 1 mg/l cetrorelix acetate. A total of 134 DEGs (76 downregulated and 58 upregulated for alarelin treatment) and 226 DEGs (90 downregulated and 136 upregulated for cetrorelix) were identified by RNA-sequencing analysis, respectively. Enrichment analysis indicated that DEGs were enriched in the GO terms of cell-cell signalling and cell junctions. The pathways that regulate the development of follicles were identified, including the biological progress of cAMP accumulation, ovulation cycle and vasculature that are essential to follicular selection. 3. The results suggested that GnRH might directly regulate GC proliferation via autocrine or paracrine pathways related to cell junctions. In particular, it was confirmed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of the oestrogen receptor 2 (ESR2) gene, a negative transcription factor involved in follicular maturation and ovulation, were affected by GnRH agonist or antagonist in GCs. 4. In conclusion, GnRH might play an important role in follicular development by changing the expression of genes that participate in cAMP accumulation, ovulation cycle and cell junctions in ovarian GCs.